Garment with selectably viewable integrated panel

ABSTRACT

Pursuant to some embodiments, garments and methods of making such garments are provided in which the garment includes an outer panel the outer panel having a fastening mechanism formed therein, the outer panel providing a first viewable surface when the fastening mechanism is in a first position. The garment further includes an integrated panel attached to at least one of (i) at least a first major seam along an interior surface of the outer panel, and (ii) the interior surface of the outer panel, the integrated panel providing a second viewable surface when the fastening mechanism is in a second position.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based on and claims benefit of and priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/932,333 filed Nov. 7, 2019,the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

It is increasingly common for individuals to wear athletic andsportswear for athletic pursuits as well as social and professionaloccasions. In the apparel industry, many garments such as sweatshirtsand shorts have traditionally only had one use case. There is no dynamicnature to the product that correlates to the mobile economy we live innowadays, mobile referring to both mobile devices and an on-the-golifestyle which has been expedited by ride-sharing services, coworkingspaces, social networking apps, and so forth. Thus, given these changesto lifestyle, one sees the need for conventional designs to be evolvedto be more versatile in both form and function. It would be desirable toprovide athletic and sportswear with features that improve performanceduring athletic pursuits as well as improve the appearance and functionfor social and professional occasions.

SUMMARY

This summary is not intended to identify only key or essential featuresof the described subject matter, nor is it intended to be used inisolation to determine the scope of the described subject matter. Thesubject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portionsof the entire specification of this patent, any or all drawings, andeach claim.

Pursuant to some embodiments, garments are provided which include anouter panel having a fastening mechanism formed therein, the outer panelproviding a first viewable surface when the fastening mechanism is in afastened position and an integrated panel attached to at least one of(i) at least a first major seam along an interior surface of the outerpanel, and (ii) the interior surface of the outer panel, the integratedpanel providing a second viewable surface when the fastening mechanismis not in a fastened position. Pursuant to some embodiments, the garmentmay be a jacket, shirt, hoodie, poncho or other upper body garment. Insome embodiments, the garment may be short or long pants.

Pursuant to some embodiments, the outer panel is a rear panel of thegarment and the fastening mechanism bisects the rear panel and extendsfrom an upper edge of the rear panel to a bottom seam of the garment. Insome embodiments, the rear panel of the garment is formed from a stretchmaterial and the integrated panel is formed from a breathable materialhaving a design thereon.

Pursuant to some embodiments, when the fastening mechanism is not in afastened position, the interior of the garment receives improved airflow, and an exterior view of the garment reveals the integrated panel(which may have a decorative appearance, thereby changing the appearanceand feel of the garment).

In some embodiments, the rear panel includes at least a first pair offasteners allowing the rear panel to be held in a position when thefastening mechanism is not in a fastened position.

The result is a garment with improved versatility and function. Byhaving an option on the back side (or front side) of the garment to hideor reveal an inner layer, the wearer now can change his style withoutchanging clothes, and with the design of an integrated panel being on abreathable layer of fabric, revealing the integrated panel through oneor more fastening mechanisms also increases air flow and improves heatdissipation for the wearer, allowing the wearer to adjust to multipleenvironments with varying temperatures easily.

The foregoing, together with other features and embodiments, will becomemore apparent upon referring to the following specification, claims, andaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features and advantages of the example embodiments, and the manner inwhich the same are accomplished, will become more readily apparent withreference to the following detailed description taken in conjunctionwith the accompanying drawings.

FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate an example of a jacket pursuant to someembodiments.

FIGS. 2A-2F illustrate examples of views of apparel tops, according tosome embodiments.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate examples of views of apparel bottoms using aseries of buttons, according to some embodiments.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate examples of views of apparel bottoms usingone or more zippers, according to some embodiments.

FIGS. 5A through 5C illustrate examples of views of apparel bottoms thatare shorts, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a pattern used to construct a graphiclayer, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a view of an interior of an apparel topwith an integrated panel, according to some embodiments.

Throughout the drawings and the detailed description, unless otherwisedescribed, the same drawing reference numerals will be understood torefer to the same elements, features, and structures. The relative sizeand depiction of these elements may be exaggerated or adjusted forclarity, illustration, and/or convenience.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, specific details are set forth in order toprovide a thorough understanding of the various example embodiments. Itshould be appreciated that various modifications to the embodiments willbe readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the genericprinciples defined herein may be applied to other embodiments andapplications without departing from the spirit and scope of thedisclosure. Moreover, in the following description, numerous details areset forth for the purpose of explanation. However, one of ordinary skillin the art should understand that embodiments may be practiced withoutthe use of these specific details. In other instances, well-knownstructures and processes are not shown or described in order not toobscure the description with unnecessary detail. Thus, the presentdisclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown but isto be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles andfeatures disclosed herein.

The present disclosure is directed to novel and inventive apparel (e.g.,clothing) items. Some embodiments comprise a fastening mechanism tooptionally present a previously hidden graphic or other element. In someembodiments, the fastening mechanism comprises a vertical portion. Someembodiments are directed to a double layer apparel item where the firstlayer can be opened to reveal the second layer within the apparel item.In this respect, the second layer may be a graphic layer or otherelement which can be selectively displayed. In general, as used herein,the second layer (or graphic layer) may be referred to herein as an“integrated panel”, and generally refers to a layer or panel of materialthat lies between the outer layer of a garment (such as the portion of agarment that is typically viewable while it is worn) and the individualwearing the garment. While an “integrated panel” is generally describedherein as being formed of a single layer of material, it can be formedof one or more layers of material.

With the boom of the athleisure and fitness industries in the pastdecade, apparel products may have improved in textile endurance, butoverall bodily constructions still fail to capture the dynamic aspect oflifestyle offered by society. For instance, a running jacket will bedescribed in conjunction with FIG. 1 below. Prior to the invention,running jacket designs have been treated as an isolated product when infact it is the function of both the under garment (such as a t-shirt,thermal layer) and outer garment working together as one system duringexercise. Applicant has recognized the need for a more advanced solutionin which the integrated panel design eliminates the need for a separatet-shirt, thereby optimizing the running experience. Further, the use ofthe integrated panel together with a fastener system on the back side ofthe outer garment (illustrated in FIG. 1C) allows a wearer the option toincrease heat dissipation without removing any worn garments. Such anincrease in air flow is essential to the cooldown period of an athleteand the integrated panel reveal may also function as a stylishembodiment.

This utility can be extended beyond the athletic industry to traditionalstreetwear garments where the integrated panel reveal adds a novelfeeling to the wearer that can arouse inspiration and conversation. Forexample, with respect to a hoodie, having integrated panels on both thefront and back sides eliminates the need to wear a garment under thehoodie, which traditionally is lined with fleece on the interior and isuncomfortable to the wearer's body if there is no separation layer fromskin to hoodie. By having an option on the back side (or front side) ofthe top garment to hide or reveal an inner layer, the wearer now canchange his style without changing clothes, and with the design of anintegrated panel being on a breathable layer of fabric, revealing theintegrated panel through one or more fastening mechanisms also increasesair flow and improves heat dissipation for the wearer, allowing thewearer to adjust to multiple environments with varying temperatureseasily.

Embodiments provide outstanding benefits to both the wearer and thedesigner, opening up limitless creative possibilities to previouslyone-dimension products in the apparel industry.

As used herein, the term “apparel” includes apparel tops (such as short-and long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, hoodies, jackets, ponchos, overcoats,and suits) as well as apparel bottoms (such as short or long pants).Such apparel items may include a fastening mechanism such as a zipper,buttons, or Velcro to assist a person to put on or take off the apparelitem.

Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it isto be understood that the invention is not limited in its application tothe details of construction and the arrangement of components set forthin the following description or illustrated in the following drawings.The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced orof being carried out in some ways. Also, it is to be understood that thephraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescription and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of“including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein ismeant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereofas well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, theterms “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled” and variationsthereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirectmountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected”and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connectionsor couplings.

The following discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in theart to make and use embodiments of the invention. Some modifications tothe illustrated embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled inthe art, and the generic principles herein may be applied to otherembodiments and applications without departing from embodiments of theinvention. Thus, embodiments of the invention are not intended to belimited to embodiments shown but are to be accorded the widest scopeconsistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. Thefollowing detailed description is to be read with reference to thefigures, in which like elements in different figures have like referencenumerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depictselected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope ofembodiments of the invention. Skilled artisans will recognize theexamples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall withinthe scope of embodiments of the invention.

Features of some embodiments will now be described by reference to FIG.1 where an example of an item of apparel pursuant to the presentinvention will be described. In particular, the item of apparel shown inFIG. 1 is a jacket such as a running jacket. FIG. 1A shows a front viewof a jacket 100 pursuant to some embodiments. As shown, the jacket 100is formed of a number of panels including one or more sleeve upperpanels 114, sleeve lower panels 116, upper body panels 110, front sidepanels 124 and front panel 102. Some or all of these panels may beformed of a durable material such as nylon. In some embodiments, some ofthe panels may be formed of a stretch material such as a two or four waystretch such as materials made of a blend of polyester and spandex. Forexample, in one currently preferred embodiment, the sleeve upper panels114, the cuffs 118 and the collar 104 are formed of a ripstop nylonmaterial and the sleeve lower panels 116, the front side panels 124 andthe front panel 102 are formed of a two way stretch fabric. In someembodiments, all of the panels (including, for example, both the stretchfabric and the ripstop nylon) may be treated to provide some waterresistance or waterproofing.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, a front zipper 108 is provided thatextends from the collar 104 to the top of the front panel 102. The frontzipper 108 (and other zippers described herein) may be, for example,nylon zippers with rubberized taping both inside and out. In someembodiments, areas of ventilation may be provided to exhaust heat fromthe wearer's body (in addition to the front zipper 108 and a rear zipperwhich will be described further below). For example, one or more smallwindows 112 may be formed near the underarm area. The windows 112 may beformed from mesh or other material allowing heat transfer from theinterior of the jacket 100.

In some embodiments, one or more pockets may be formed in the frontpanel 102. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, two front pockets 126 areformed in the front panel 102. The front pockets 126 are formed inside adouble folded edge between tacks of the edge of the front panel 102. Thefront pockets 126 may be provided with zippers and front pocket zipperpulls 128.

Reference is now made to FIG. 1B where a rear view of a jacket 130 isshown. As with the front view, the rear view shows the collar 104, thesleeve upper panels 114, the sleeve lower panels 116 and the cuffs 118.The rear view also shows rear body panels 132, rear side panels 134 anda rear fastening mechanism (shown for example purposes as a rear zipper136, although other types of fastening mechanisms may be used withdesirable results). When a zipper pull 138 is in the lower position (asis depicted in the view shown in FIG. 1B), the rear body panels 132 areclosed. When the zipper pull 138 is in the lower position, the item ofapparel appears as an item of sportswear (a running jacket). Further, inthe case where the item of apparel is worn in adverse weather conditions(such as in wind, rain, sleet or snow, for example), the closed rearbody panels 132 may help to ensure the wearer is kept dry and warm. Whenthe zipper pull 138 is in the lower position, the exterior of the rearof the jacket 100 shows a first viewable surface. The first viewablesurface generally does not show much (if any) of the decorative andfunctional integrated panel 120.

The rear body panels 132 can be opened as shown in FIG. 1C to reveal anintegrated panel 120 and to provide greater ventilation and heatreduction from the wearer's body. When the rear body panels 132 are inan open position (which may be fully or partially open), the exterior ofthe rear of the jacket 100 shows a second viewable surface which showssome (or all) of the decorative and functional integrated panel 120. Theintegrated panel 120, in some embodiments, is a decorative panel thatchanges the overall appearance of the item of apparel. Further, the rearbody panels 132 may be kept in an open position by engaging one or moresnaps 140, 142 or other attachment mechanisms (such as, for example,Velcro tabs, buttons or rivets, hooks, ball and stem, magnets, adhesivesor the like). In general, the attachment mechanism used is any mechanismthat allows a wearer to easily position the rear body panels 132 in anorientation to provide a desired view of the integrated panel 120. Whilethe snaps 140, 142 are shown along a bottom edge of the jacket, thesnaps 140, 142 or other attachment mechanism may be located in otherpositions. For example, a snap, button or other attachment mechanism maybe located along a middle portion of the rear body panels 132 (and acorresponding snap, button or other attachment mechanism may bepositioned along a middle portion of the rear side panels 134). Otherpositions may be selected to provide different views of the integratedpanel 120.

As an illustrative example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1C, one orboth of the rear male snaps 142 may be coupled to one or both of therear female snaps 140 to hold the rear body panels 132 in an openposition and to allow the decorative integrated panel 120 to be seen.Further, in some embodiments, the rear body panels 132 may be placed inan open position to provide improved heat management for the wearer. Theintegrated panel 120 may be formed of a breathable layer of fabric whicheliminates the need for a shirt or separate layer under the jacket 120.For example, in some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 may be formedof several panels that are shaped to match the body panels such that theintegrated panel 120 substantially surrounds the wearer's torso. As anillustrative, but not limiting example, the integrated panel 120 may beformed of an integrated panel that generally matches the shape and sizeof the rear body panel, as well as integrated panels that correspond tothe rear side panels 134, the front side panels 124 and the front panel102. Further, pursuant to some embodiments, to improve manufacturingefficiency as well as wearer comfort, each panel of the integrated panel120 may be formed such that the edges of each panel of the integratedpanel 120 share a substantially identical silhouette to thecorresponding outer panel.

In some embodiments, each panel of the integrated panel 120 may share asubstantially identical silhouette to groups of corresponding outerpanels. For example, in some embodiments, a panel of the integratedpanel 120 may be shaped to match the silhouette of the front side panels124 together with the front panel 102. In general, the panels of theintegrated panel 120 may be shaped and sized to allow the integratedpanel 120 to share one or more major seams with the outer panels,thereby reducing manufacturing time and expense and improving comfortand durability of the overall garment. In some embodiments, theintegrated panel 120 (or panels thereof) is not attached at any seam,but instead is attached to the corresponding outer panel with one ormore fasteners that allow the integrated panel 120 (or panels thereof)to be detached from the outer panel. As an illustrative example, anintegrated panel 120 may be shaped to span from one side panel 134 toanother side panel 134, and may be provided with Velcro or otherattaching mechanisms that allow the integrated panel 120 to be removablyattached to Velcro tabs (or other mechanisms) that are mounted on theside panels 134 such that when the integrated panel 120 is attached, itcan be viewed when the rear zipper 136 is opened (as shown in FIG. 1C).

Pursuant to some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 is printed orotherwise formed with a decorative pattern. In the illustrative exampleshown in FIG. 1C (and FIG. 7), the decorative pattern is a leopard skintype pattern. In some embodiments, the pattern or style of theintegrated panel 120 has an aesthetic or style that is different fromthe aesthetic or style of the outer panels of the item of apparel. Thisallows a wearer of the item of apparel to change the style of theitem—switching between one aesthetic to another by simply revealing orhiding the integrated panel 120. When exposed, the integrated panel 120can turn the item of apparel into an art piece and can elicit adifferent emotional response than when the integrated panel 120 isclosed.

Applicant has discovered that the use of such an integrated panel 120extends the utility of an item of apparel, providing an element ofconsumer surprise that is absent in the apparel industry. Brands andsponsors can offer a new emotional response to consumers with an elementof discovery and surprise. Further, embodiments extend the utility of anitem of apparel by enhancing both the functional utility of the item aswell as the style of the item of apparel.

Pursuant to some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 may be one ofseveral integrated panels that are placed in an interior of the item ofapparel. For example, in the jacket 100, integrated panels may be placedin both the front and the rear of the jacket 100. In some embodiments,the integrated panel 120 spans the full back side of the outer body ofthe jacket 100 to maximize air flow when the rear zipper 136 is fullyopened and secured in place by the snaps 140, 142 (or by otherattachment means such as Velcro, or other elements configured to holdthe rear body panels 132 in an open position as described variouslyherein). Applicant has found that if the integrated panel 120 is smallerthan the exterior size of the back of the jacket 100 or does not fullyline or cover the interior of the jacket 100 that discomfort fromperspiration may occur and may further reduce ventilation(notwithstanding the foregoing, Applicant has found that, in someembodiments, a small offset from the bottom of the garment providesdesirable benefits and does not cause discomfort). In some embodiments,one or more integrated panels 120 are formed to provide 360 degrees offully lined and breathable material on the interior of the jacket 100.While the rear zipper 136 is shown as spanning from an upper part of therear panels 132 to the bottom of the jacket 100, the rear zipper 136 mayspan a longer or a shorter distance (e.g., to reveal a different amountof the integrated panel 120 and to provide a different amount or type ofair flow).

The integrated panel 120 (and any other integrated panels not shown inFIG. 1) may be attached to the jacket 100 at one or more of the primaryseams of the main body of fabric to maximize comfort and productionefficiencies. For example, production efficiencies are improved becauseno additional fastening items are used or needed. The main seams orpoints of attachment on the back of the jacket 100 may include theshoulder seams 148 (of FIG. 1B) as well as any main seams on the body ofthe jacket 100. In some embodiments, the integrated panels 120 are sizedsuch that they have a small offset from the outer body. For example,referring to FIG. 1A, the integrated panel 120 is shown as having anoffset 122 from the jacket body. This small offset may be, for example,0.5 to 1.0 cm or an amount selected such that the integrated panel 120remains invisible from the exterior of the jacket 100 when the rearzipper 136 is in a closed position.

In another embodiment (not shown in FIG. 1), the integrated panel 120may extend below the body of the jacket 100. For example, in someembodiments, a portion of the integrated panel 120 may extend severalinches below the body of the jacket 100 to provide additional protectionfrom wind or cold. For example, a wearer may tuck the extended portionof the integrated panel 120 into the wearer's pants or shorts to provideimproved warmth.

In some embodiments, rather than attaching the integrated panel 120 at amajor seam of the main body of fabric, the integrated panel 120 may beattached to a minor seam of the main body of fabric or to a portion ofthe outer panel of the garment. In some embodiments, the integratedpanel 120 may be formed of multiple panels which are shaped and sized tocover different portions of the wearer's body. For example, in thejacket 100 of FIG. 1, a portion of the integrated panel 120 may be sizedto cover the wearer's back (e.g., to span the width of rear body panels132), but it may further be sized to span the rear side panels 134 aswell as the front side panels 124 and the front panel 102 (e.g.,generally creating a tubular integrated panel 120 that circles thewearer's torso). The integrated panel 120 may be attached to the outerpanels at one or more seams (or at other locations as described herein).

In some embodiments, the integrated panel 120 is not attached at a seamand is smaller than the surface area of the corresponding outer panel.In such embodiments, the integrated panel 120 may be shaped as a stripeand affixed to the outer panel using single or double stitch embroidery,positioned along any horizontal axis of the outer panel. One or more ofsuch stripes may be provided, each along the horizontal axis. Further,the integrated panel 120 may be revealed through one or more diagonalstripes or openings of any width.

In some embodiments, rather than using the depicted fastening mechanism,the left and right rear body panels 132 may be fastened at the top (inthe middle of the jacket) using a button and hole (or other fastener)and fastened at the bottom of the jacket using another button and hole(or other fastener), creating the effect of both left and right rearbody panels 132 opening from the middle and being secured through otherfasteners positioned elsewhere on the garment, thereby creating bothsymmetric and asymmetric visuals revealed by the integrated panel 120.In some embodiments, the rear body panels 132 may be removable from thegarment to reveal substantially the entire integrated panel 120.

While some embodiments have been described in conjunction with a jacket,embodiments may be used with other items of apparel. For example, FIG.2A illustrates an example of a front view of an apparel top, accordingto some embodiments. An apparel top may be a shirt, sweater, hoodie,jacket, overcoat, suit, or other clothing worn on at least a portion ofthe upper half of a person. The example of FIG. 2A shows an apparel top200 embodied as a pull-over hoodie. The front view depicts how a personwearing the apparel top is perceived face-to-face. The apparel top 200includes a front panel 202, which may be made up of textile, fabric, orthe like. The apparel top 200 may be made up of cotton such as, forexample, cotton French Terry. The apparel top 200 may include a gelprint chest logo (not shown) or other decorative item(s). The appareltop 200 may also include a hoodie portion having periphery 205 aroundthe hoodie opening. The hoodie portion may include graphics or text (notshown) arranged around the periphery 205.

FIG. 2B illustrates another example of a front view of an apparel tops,according to some embodiments. The example of FIG. 2B shows an appareltop 212 embodied as a zip-up hoodie. The apparel top 212 includes afastening mechanism 224, such as, for example, a zipper, a series ofbuttons, or Velcro. By positioning the fastening mechanism 224 on thefront panel 202, the person can easily access it to open and close it tohelp wear or take off the apparel top. For example, the fasteningmechanism 224 may be open to allow a person access to the interior ofthe apparel top 212 for purposes of putting the apparel top 212. Toremove the apparel top 212, a user may manipulate or configure thefastening mechanism 224 (e.g., zipping/unzipping, snapping/openingbuttons, opening/closing Velcro, etc.), thereby opening it for easyremoval.

FIG. 2C illustrates an example of a back view of an apparel top 200,according to some embodiments. The apparel top 200 may be a pull-overhoodie (e.g., FIG. 2A), a zip-up hoodie (e.g., FIG. 2B), or any otherapparel top. The back view depicts how a person wearing the apparel top200 is perceived from behind. The apparel top 200 includes a back panel232, which may be made up of textile, fabric, plastic, or othermaterials suitable for such items of apparel. The back panel 232 may beformed from the same material as the front panel 202 (FIGS. 2A and 2B)such that the back panel 232 and front panel 202 are different sectionsof the same layer.

In some embodiments, the back panel 232 includes an exterior surface andan interior surface. The exterior surface is visible on the outside andfaces away from the person wearing the apparel top 200 while theinterior surface faces towards the person wearing the apparel top 200.

In some embodiments, the back panel 232 of the apparel top 200 includesa backside fastening mechanism 205. In the embodiment depicted, thefastening mechanism 205 extends vertically, although any desiredorientation other than vertical can also be used. For example, thefastening mechanism could be positioned horizontally, diagonally or in acircular or oval arrangement. Further, although a single fasteningmechanism 205 is shown, multiple fastening mechanisms may be provided.The backside fastening mechanism 205 on the back panel 232 is separatefrom any fastening mechanism 224 on the front panel 202. The backsidefastening mechanism 205 extends from a lower portion of the apparel top200 to an upper portion of the apparel top 200. The backside fasteningmechanism 205 may be hidden under a flap that covers the backsidefastening mechanism 205.

The backside fastening mechanism 205 depicted in FIG. 2C shows a closedview (where the backside fastening mechanism 205 has been placed in aposition to close the back panel 232). In this respect, the interiorsurface of the back panel 232 is not accessible from the outside. In anembodiment where the backside fastening mechanism 205 is implementedusing a zipper, the zipper is in the closed position according to FIG.2C. According to an embodiment, the zipper is located at the bottom ofthe apparel top 200 in the closed position. In other words, the zipperzips downwards to close the back panel 232, thereby preventing directaccess to the inside surface of the back panel 232. In anotherembodiment, the zipper is located at the top of the apparel top 200 inthe closed position. In this case, the zipper zips upwards to close theback panel 232, thereby preventing direct access to the inside surfaceof the back panel 232.

In some embodiments, the apparel top 200 may include a bottom portionmade up of a ribbing section 208 that offsets it from the remainder ofthe back panel 232. The ribbing section 208 may have a greaterelasticity than the back panel 232. When the backside fasteningmechanism 205 is in the closed position, the ribbing section 208 maystretch beyond its resting state.

FIG. 2D illustrates an example of a back view of an apparel top 200,according to some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 2D depicts the appareltop 200 in an open view configuration. In this configuration, thebackside fastening mechanism 205 is manipulated to be in an openposition so that at least a portion of an integrated panel 220 isaccessible from the outside. When configured in the open position, atleast a portion of the integrated panel 220 is in view.

The integrated panel 220 may be a textile or some fabric-based orcomposite material. According to some embodiments, the integrated panel220 is intended to visually offset from the apparel in which it isincorporated to achieve a visual effect. The integrated panel 220 may bemade of solid fabric so as to provide protection from the environment.In this respect, the integrated panel 220 may serve to insulate andprotect the person wearing the apparel top 200 even when the backsidefastening mechanism 205 is in an open position and while the integratedpanel 220 is exposed.

As described above in conjunction with FIG. 1, in some embodiments, theintegrated panel 220 is attached to an interior of the back panel 232.For example, the top of back panel 232 may be stitched into a shoulderseam 241 using a single needle stitch. According to an embodiment, boththe back panel 232 and the integrated panel 220 attach to the frontpanel 202 at a common seam. The sides of the integrated panel 220 may bestitched into blind side seams on an interior surface of the back panel232.

According to some embodiments, when the backside fastening mechanism 205is positioned in the open configuration, the ribbing section 208 maycontract to its resting state, thereby revealing the integrated panel220. Although not shown in FIG. 2D, but as discussed above inconjunction with FIG. 1, one or more snaps or other attaching devicesmay be used to hold the back panels 232 away from the integrated panel220 to improve the visibility of the integrated panel 220.

FIG. 2E illustrates an example of a back view of an apparel top,according to some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 2E depicts the appareltop 200 in a partially open view (where the back panels 232 are in anopen position). Here, the backside fastening mechanism 205 ismanipulated to be in a partially open position. FIG. 2E shows theexterior surface of the back panels 232 and an interior surface 206 ofthe back panels 232. In response to opening up the back of the appareltop 200, each of the back panels 232 form a flap that at least partiallyreveals the integrated panel 220. Here, the back panel forms anunattached section of material that is loose to the body except for theareas where the integrated panel 220 is attached to the apparel top 200.For example, the integrated panel 220 may be attached at the shoulderand side seams of the apparel top 200.

FIG. 2F illustrates an example of a back view of an apparel top,according to some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 2F depicts the appareltop 200 in a fully open view. Here, the backside fastening mechanism 205is manipulated to be in a completely open position and the back panels232 are separated revealing the graphic of the integrated panel 220. Theresult is a stark difference between the apparel top 200 of FIG. 2B(where the integrated panel 220 is hidden) and the apparel top 200 ofFIG. 2F (where the integrated panel 220 is exposed). The item of apparelhas been transformed from a standard hoodie to a hoodie that displays acreative and unique graphic and feel.

Thus far, the invention has been described in reference to upper bodygarments, but the same innovative ideas can be applied to shorts andpants. In the example of basketball shorts, an athlete can transform hisimage off the court immediately by unzipping one or both front zippers(illustrated in FIG. 5A). This ability to alter one's image instantlyallows people of entertainment associations to remain hip and stylish toboth their fans in real life and on social media, maintaining one'sidentity as a purveyor of cool. The cooldown feature is also achievedwith the same unzipping of the front zipper(s) and when in a sittingposition the increased surface area of the integrated panel(s) exposedimproves air flow and heat dissipation.

FIG. 3A illustrates a view of an apparel bottom using a series ofbuttons, according to some embodiments. The apparel bottom 300 may be apair of pants such as, for example, sweatpants, track pants, jeans orany other variation of pants. Shown is a front view that depicts how aperson wearing the apparel bottom 300 is perceived from the front. Theapparel bottom 300 includes an outer layer 302, which may be made up oftextile, fabric, or the like.

In some embodiments, the outer layer 302 includes a fastening mechanism,although any orientation other than vertical can also be used. As shownin FIG. 3A, the fastening mechanism is a series of buttons 306.Specifically, FIG. 3A shows a closed view of the series of buttons 306such that they are snapped closed. The series of buttons may range froma lower portion of the apparel bottom 300 to an upper portion of theapparel bottom 300. In addition, there may be more than one series ofbuttons. For example, a first series of buttons and a second series ofbuttons may be symmetrically positioned on lateral portions of theapparel bottom 300. In some embodiments, other fasteners are used. Insome embodiments, the outer layer 302 may comprise an elastic band 309that has a greater elasticity than the material that makes up theremainder of the outer layer 302.

FIG. 3B illustrates a view of an apparel bottom 300 using a series ofbuttons, according to some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 3B shows anopen view of the series of buttons 306 such that they are unbuttoned orotherwise open. The series of buttons 306 may include a series of buttonpairs, each button pair comprising a button and a buttonhole. When aseries of buttons 306 are in the open position, an integrated panel 320is revealed. The integrated panel 320 is sewn, stitched, hemmed, orotherwise attached to an interior surface of the outer layer 302. Thus,when the series of buttons 306 are in the closed position, as shown inFIG. 3A, the integrated panel 320 is hidden.

FIG. 4A illustrates a view of an apparel bottom using one or morezippers, according to some embodiments. The apparel bottom 400 may be apair of pants such as, for example, sweatpants, track pants, jeans orany other variation of pants. Shown is a front view that depicts how aperson wearing the apparel bottom 400 is perceived from the front. Theapparel bottom 400 includes an outer layer 402, which may be made up oftextile, fabric, or the like.

In some embodiments, the outer layer 402 includes a vertical orotherwise oriented fastening mechanism. As shown in FIG. 4A, thefastening mechanism includes one or more zipper systems. A zipper systemincludes zipper tracks 406 and at least one zipper 407 to zip or unzipthe zipper tracks 406. The zipper tracks 406 are positioned on anopening in the outer layer 402 so that the opening may be closed oropened. While the embodiment is depicted as having zipper tracks on bothpant legs, in some embodiments, only one leg may have the zipper tracksand an integrated panel revealed by opening the zipper. Further, thezippers do not need to be on both legs (a different fastening mechanismmay be on one leg, for example), nor do the opposing zipper systems needto be symmetrical

FIG. 4A shows a closed view of the series of multiple zipper systemsaccording to some embodiments. For example, a first zipper system and asecond zipper system may be symmetrically positioned on lateral portionsof the apparel bottom 400. Each zipper system shown in the embodiment ofFIG. 4A includes two zippers 407 so that one zipper may move upwardswhile the other moves downwards to enter a fully open position.

The outer layer 402 may comprise an elastic band 409 that has a greaterelasticity than the material that makes up the remainder of the outerlayer 402.

FIG. 4B illustrates a view of an apparel bottom 400 using one or morezippers, according to some embodiments. Specifically, FIG. 4B shows anopen view of the zipper systems such that they are unzipped or otherwiseopen. A zipper 407 may be moved upwards to the top of the apparel bottom400 and/or a zipper 407 may be moved downwards to the bottom of theapparel bottom 400. By unzipping the apparel bottom 400, the zippertracks 406 are separated, thereby revealing the integrated panel 420.The integrated panel 420 is sewn, stitched, hemmed, or otherwiseattached to an interior surface of the outer layer 502. In someembodiments, for example, the integrated panel 420 may be attached at amajor seam (such as at the waist band) or using other attachmentapproaches as described elsewhere herein (e.g., the integrated panel 420could be attached below a seam such as the waistband, etc.). Thus, whenthe zipper system is in the closed position, as shown in FIG. 4A, theintegrated panel 420 is hidden.

FIGS. 5A through 5C illustrate examples of views of apparel bottoms thatare shorts, according to some embodiments. FIG. 5A depicts an apparelbottom 500 that comprises a pair of shorts. The shorts are configured inan open position revealing the underlying integrated panel 520. FIG. 5Adepicts a front facing view of the shorts. The shorts include a verticalor otherwise oriented fastening mechanism 507 that may be positioned ina symmetrical or asymetrical manner on both leg regions that extend froma bottom portion to a top portion of the shorts. When in the openposition an interior surface of the panels 509 of the outer section isexposed and accessible to allow the integrated panel 520 to be visible,at least partially.

FIG. 5B shows the shorts of FIG. 5A in a closed position, thereby hidingthe integrated panel 520 from visible sight. In this respect, thefastening mechanism 507 is in the closed position. FIG. 5C shows theshorts of FIG. 5A from a backside view. The fastening mechanism 507 arenot located on the backside of the shorts as shown in FIG. 5C, althoughin some embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more fasteningmechanisms 507 may be positioned on the backside of the apparel bottom500. While an attachment mechanism (such as a snap or button) is notshown in the embodiment of FIG. 5, any of the attachment mechanismsdescribed herein may be used to hold panels 509 in a desired openposition.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a pattern 600 used to construct anintegrated panel according to some embodiments. The pattern may be anypattern 600 and can serve as a layer which can be selectively hiddenusing fastening mechanisms and approaches as described elsewhere herein.In some embodiments, the pattern 600 may be printed or otherwise placedon an item of fabric that is selected to provide insulation, heatdissipation, comfort or other benefits to the person wearing an articleof clothing incorporating the integrated panel. In some embodiments, thepattern 600 may be weaved or embroidered or otherwise placed on an itemof fabric for use as an integrated panel pursuant to the presentinvention. Integrated panels may be formed with designs that aremanufactured using any of a number of different processes such as, forexample, via printing with a screen print, printing with a digitalmachine, heat transfer with vinyl, heat transfer of embellishments suchas rhinestones and crystals, jacquard or weaved into the fabric,embroidery, sublimation, washes of any kind including tie-dye, rubbingof different textures to create a distressed appearance. In someembodiments, the design of the integrated panel may be selected toprovide contrast or other visual distinction from the outer panel.

As illustrative, but not limiting examples, the integrated panel may bea non-solid color while the outer panel may be a solid color (or othercombinations thereof). In some embodiments, the integrated panel may bea design in a color other than a fabric's natural color (e.g., such as afabric that has been prepared for dyeing). The integrated panel may beor include a design formed of a texture achieved by a different fabricfrom the outer panel; a letter; a word or multiple words; a line orlines; a pattern in both black and white or in color; an image from acamera in its natural or altered state; any combination of theaforementioned elements that is distinctly different from the outerlayer in terms of color, weight, and material.

Reference is now made to FIG. 7 where an interior view of a garment isshown. More particularly, the interior view is a view of a jacket 150such as the jacket described in conjunction with FIG. 1. While theinterior view is described in conjunction with a specific example of ajacket, the view may be similar in other garments described herein, andthe other garments may include a similar configuration of an integratedpanel. In FIG. 7, an integrated panel 120 with a decorative pattern isshown. The integrated panel 120 is sized and shaped to match thesilhouette of the rear panels of the jacket 150 (not shown in FIG. 7,but which may generally correspond to items 132 and 134 of FIG. 1B aswell as the area extending from the collar 104 to those items). In someembodiments, the integrated panel 120 is shaped to allow it to beattached to the body of the garment at one or more major seams, therebyincreasing manufacturing efficiencies and improving the comfort andwearability of the garment.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7, the integrated panel 120 is sewnor attached to the garment at seams including vertical seams 168 andseams along the shoulders and upper back 162, 164. The result is anintegrated panel 120 that fits the wearer properly and that does notbunch up or otherwise move relative to the outer panels of the garment.When the wearer wishes to display the integrated panel 120, thefastening mechanism (not shown in FIG. 7 but shown in FIG. 1 andelsewhere herein) is unfastened to reveal the decorative integratedpanel 120. The result is a garment with multiple purposes and looks. Agarment such as the jacket 150 (or other garments described herein) mayhave more than one integrated panel 120 and other integrated panels maybe positioned along other sides of the garment.

It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of thepresent disclosure are merely possible examples of implementations setforth for a clear understanding of the principles of the disclosure.Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-describedembodiment(s) without departing substantially from the spirit andprinciples of the disclosure. All such modifications and variations areintended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure andprotected by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A garment, comprising: an outer panel having afastening mechanism formed therein, the outer panel providing a firstviewable surface when the fastening mechanism is in a first position;and an integrated panel attached to at least one of (i) at least a firstmajor seam along an interior surface of the outer panel, and (ii) theinterior surface of the outer panel, the integrated panel providing asecond viewable surface when the fastening mechanism is in a secondposition.
 2. The garment of claim 1, wherein the garment is a jacket. 3.The garment of claim 1, wherein the outer panel is a rear panel of thegarment and the fastening mechanism bisects the rear panel and extendsfrom an upper edge of the rear panel to a bottom seam of the garment,wherein the fastening mechanism bisects the rear panel in one of asymmetric and an asymmetric proportion.
 4. The garment of claim 3,wherein the rear panel of the garment is formed from a stretch material.5. The garment of claim 4, wherein the integrated panel is formed from abreathable material having a design thereon.
 6. The garment of claim 5,wherein when the fastening mechanism is the second position, theinterior of the garment receives improved air flow.
 7. The garment ofclaim 3, wherein the rear panel of the garment includes at least a firstpair of fasteners allowing the rear panel to be held in a position whenthe fastening mechanism is in the second position.
 8. The garment ofclaim 1, wherein the garment is one of (i) a jacket, (ii) a hoodie,(iii) long pants, (iv) short pants, (v) a shirt, (vi) a sweater and(vii) a poncho.
 9. The garment of claim 1, wherein the garment are longor short pants.
 10. The garment of claim 9, wherein the outer panel is aleg of the long or short pants.
 11. The garment of claim 1, wherein thefirst viewable surface displays the outer panel.
 12. The garment ofclaim 1, wherein the first viewable surface displays substantially noneof the integrated panel.
 13. The garment of claim 1, wherein the secondviewable surface displays an increased portion of the integrated paneland reduced portion of the outer panel.
 14. A garment, comprising: afirst side; a second side, the second side having an inner face and anouter face and further including at least a first outer panel having afastening mechanism formed therein, the at least first outer panelproviding a first viewable surface when the fastening mechanism is in afirst position; an integrated panel attached to the second side on theinner face, the integrated panel providing a second viewable surfacewith the fastening mechanism is in a second position.
 15. The garment ofclaim 14, wherein the second side further comprises at least a firstattachment mechanism to selectively hold the at least first outer panelin a position when the fastening mechanism is in the second position.16. The garment of claim 14, wherein the fastening mechanism is a zipperextending from an upper portion of the second side to one of (i) a lowerseam and (ii) an edge of the second side.
 17. The garment of claim 14wherein the first side is a front side of the garment and the secondside is a rear side of the garment.
 18. The garment of claim 15, whereinthe at least first attachment mechanism is one of (i) a snap, (ii) abutton, (iii) a buckle, (iv) a magnet, and (v) a Velcro tab.
 19. Thegarment of claim 14 wherein the integrated panel is formed of abreathable material.
 20. The garment of claim 14, wherein the integratedpanel is formed of a material having a decorative design thereon.